Bankruptcy Law helps you help yourself and your family.

Firm Overview

The focus of my work has always been on helping people with real life problems and finding the right solution for each one. We know that some attorneys clearly do not understand how difficult it is to even talk to someone about bankruptcy. We do not believe in pushing you into any form of bankruptcy that is not in your best interest but we also respect your belief in what is right for you and your family. We hope to provide as much information with a phone call and to refer you to other resources to explain the process of bankruptcy.

Prior to law school and while working and attending school, I ran the eviction defense clinic at Legal Services of Northern California. I saw hardworking families struggling to keep a home for their families. I also assisted with Chapter 7 and 13 petitions, public benefit assistance and providing services to veterans. After graduating from law school (working and attending law school full time) I worked in criminal defense for adults and juveniles, trying cases and listening to clients. After seven years of criminal defense I started my own practice which consists of Chapter 7 and 13 (stopping garnishments, repossessions) criminal law, appeals and writs and public benefits assistance. My office has remained in mid-town since opening it in 2006/07.

Example cases

Most recently I have had clients who have businesses and are filing personal bankruptcies. Sometimes these businesses are doing well; however, the personal debts or mortgage/foreclosure issues have forced them to file bankruptcy. We must evaluate and then file motions for the trustee to exclude this business as an asset and allow the discharge of all the other debts, truly giving the client a fresh start.

Main Office

Main
1903 21st St.
Sacramento
CA
95811

Phone

(916) 456-2027

Fax

(916) 456-2035

Websites

Fees

Free Initial Consultation?

Yes, I do offer free consultations. Often times I can advise you over the phone after listening to your concerns and individual situation. A means test (beyond simply knowing your income) can be done with an additional fee if you initially don't fit into a Chapter 7 and need to have other expenses and debts evaluated in order to be considered for a debt liquidation.

Services Offered For Fixed Fees?

Flat fees are available for Chapter 7 and reduced fees for simple bankruptcies. If you were referred by Nolo, I will offer an additional discount. Chapter 7 filings and representation can run from $900 to $2,000 depending on the complexity of the case.

Hourly Rates

For initial filings flat fees are used. For additional motions my rate is $200 per hour.

Evening and weekend appointments available.

Office Manager

Jackie Walters.

Emergency After Hours

Yes

Languages Spoken

Spanish interpreter available.

How did your firm decide on the primary area of practice(s)?

I have spent most of the last 20 years providing support and assistance to people from a number of walks of life. Juveniles, poor families, working families, veterans, and immigrants.

What is your firm's point of view regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

We all have had to become experts in every area - going to the doctors, the mechanic and the lawyer. It is not insulting to do your homework, ask questions, and to be able to discuss intelligently with your attorney the options available to you. However, I also understand the urgency bankruptcy takes and sometimes you need someone to listen to what your issues are and give you advice in order for you to make the best decision quickly.

Is your firm willing to review documents prepared by clients?

The bankruptcy courts require attorneys to file all documents electronically. I use a software package that makes it very easy to plug your information in and file it. If you decide you just need an attorney to look at the paperwork you have prepared in order to represent yourself I am not opposed to that; however, it is probably not the best use of your time and money. If you know you want to file a Chapter 7 and know that you qualify and don't need legal advice, my paralegal can plug in all your information and electronically file it in pro per, allowing you to avoid attorney fees.

Is your firm willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

I am more than happy to educate people about the law. It is one of the most important things an attorney can do and often all that the client needs.

Dennise Henderson

I have always worked on behalf of common people facing the problems many people face in their lifetime. Prior to law school I worked for the California Redevelopment Agency lobbying for redevelopment in California cities and evaluating legislation in Sacramento. I worked for a federally funded substance abuse task force advocating and creating services to children and adults in need of services in Sacramento. I worked for Women Escaping a Violent Environment helping clients and families to leave violent situations and re-create their lives. I volunteered with Legal Services of Northern California running their eviction defense clinic, participated in their bankruptcy clinic and went into shelters providing legal services and advice to people struggling with debt that turned them out on the street. As an attorney I have successfully tried over 300 cases in criminal court (probation violations, felonies, misdemeanors, juvenile cases and found alternatives for juveniles facing CYA. In private practice I have continued my criminal defense and juvenile practice and bankruptcy and public benefit assistance to clients struggling with the worst economy any of us have ever seen or anticipated.

My life and work experience make me a person who understands the needs of my clients. I have lived and worked in the real world and have the education and legal experience to enhance that life experience.

I listen to my clients and brainstorm with them to find solutions. This way I believe I bring them the knowledge of the law and the compassion and understanding that is needed in stressful situations. I believe in being responsive to clients. One of the main complaints that people have about lawyers is that they never return their calls. I believe strongly in responding as quickly as possible. It is also easier on me to answer when you call and the question is on your mind then to play phone tag, or call later when you have forgotten what you called about, or the problem has escalated.

Personal interests:

I have always been interested in human rights. This carries over to the right to have a home, the right to have safe living and working conditions, the right to have opportunities to make your life what you envision it to be. I am always touched when I run into a client later and their life has changed so that they are able to help others. To reenergize myself and my commitment to what I do I go to nature, to the ocean or to the woods to see life as it was meant to be.

License

Bar Number: 208640
California , 2000

Education

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate
, 2000
Sacramento, CA
Bankruptcy, tax law, juvenile law, and criminal law.

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